August is prime time for West Nile virus

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - This summer's drought has helped keep the mosquito population under control, but the Kansas City Health Department says there is still a risk for West Nile virus.

"August has always been the big month for West Nile virus," said health department spokesman Jeff Hershberger.

He said the drought first brought concern that a lack of rain would help mosquito larva grow in standing water. But that water dried up, cutting into the mosquito population.

Right now, Kansas City has two suspected West Nile cases under investigation, which Hershberger said is average. Missouri and Kansas have one reported death each, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Hershberger said covering up and wearing repellent containing 35 percent DEET is the best defense. He said anyone worried they have West Nile should see a doctor immediately.

"About 80 percent of the people, there's no symptoms. But for about one in 150, it can be very serious," Hershberger said.

According to the health department, a person is most likely to be bitten by a mosquito at dawn or dusk.